The New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) announced today that Rocinante High School has successfully exited More Rigorous Intervention (MRI) status, the state’s highest level of support for chronically struggling schools.
Rocinante High School’s graduation rate for the Class of 2025 reached 73.28%, reflecting a 19.08 percentage point increase from 2023, when the rate was 54.2%.
“Exiting More Rigorous Intervention is no small feat,” said Public Education Secretary Mariana D. Padilla. “These schools, their educators, and their communities have committed to meaningful change to ensure more students cross the graduation stage ready for college or career. Their progress shows that with the right support, strong school leadership, and an unwavering focus on student success, more young people can earn their diplomas and build stronger futures right here in New Mexico.”
“We celebrate this achievement alongside our Rocinante students and families, whose perseverance, resilience, and commitment to growth make progress like this possible. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the Rocinante staff for the extraordinary work they do each and every day. Their dedication to supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally does not go unnoticed. They meet students where they are, provide consistent encouragement, and create meaningful pathways to success,” said Farmington Municipal Schools Superintendent Cody Diehl.
“We also want to recognize and celebrate the outstanding leadership of Mr. J.J. Sandoval and the meaningful impact he is making as Principal of Rocinante High School. Thanks to his dedication and the collective efforts of the entire school community, Rocinante is no longer identified for MRI. We are encouraged by the direction the school is headed and look forward to sharing even more positive news from Rocinante in the future,” he added.
This accomplishment is especially significant in an alternative school setting, where many students enroll needing to recover credits and get back on track toward graduation. The progress achieved reflects a strong culture of support, high expectations, and a shared belief that every student can succeed.
Mr. J.J. Sandoval joined Farmington Municipal Schools in May 2024, bringing extensive leadership experience from his previous role as Principal of Charlie Y. Brown High School in Bloomfield. His professional background also includes leadership positions with Cuba Independent Schools, Central Consolidated Schools, and McCormick Elementary, where he built a reputation for strengthening school culture and advancing student achievement.
Related article: